She continued hanging the laundry while dad played at her feet when they noticed a man walking up the street toward them. Still just a silhouette, my grandmother wondered out loud, “I wonder who that soldier is?”

They paused in their work to gaze upon the figure.

“That’s MY soldier boy!” my grandmother exclaimed, dropping her basket and running to greet her oldest son and first born child in the street.

“I didn’t know who that man was, but I knew he must be important for my Momma to go running like that,” Dad said.

Members of my family have served in every branch of the armed forces. My two youngest nephews are currently Marines. I couldn’t be more proud.

Thank you to everyone who has served, is serving and will serve our country in the military. May no one forget the sacrifices you and your families have made, continue to make and will make to ensure our everyday freedoms.